The challenge of treating biofilm-associated bacterial infections

Clin Pharmacol Ther. 2007 Aug;82(2):204-9. doi: 10.1038/sj.clpt.6100247. Epub 2007 May 30.

Abstract

Biofilm formation is a crucial step in the pathogenesis of many subacute and chronic bacterial infections, including foreign body-related infections. Biofilms are difficult to eradicate with conventional antimicrobial agents. Bacterial biofilms have several potential antimicrobial resistance mechanisms. Antimicrobial resistance mechanisms may act concurrently, and in some cases, synergistically. Persister cells play a major role in the tolerance of biofilm bacteria to antimicrobial agents. Understanding the mechanisms involved in biofilm-associated antimicrobial resistance is key to development of new therapeutic strategies.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / pharmacology
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Bacterial Infections / drug therapy*
  • Bacterial Infections / microbiology*
  • Biofilms / drug effects*
  • Drug Resistance, Bacterial
  • Humans
  • Models, Biological

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents